U2tour.de has pried some information from the German branch of Universal, concerning release dates for various remastered albums.
The upcoming release dates are:
6th June: Boy, October
20th June: War, Under a blood red sky
Keep in mind that these are release dates for Germany, where CDs in general are released on Friday. U2tour.de speculate this could mean 9th/23rd june for the UK, and 10th/24th for the US.
All albums will be released in the following formats:
Single-cd-version, double-cd-deluxe-version, vinyl.
There will also be another DVD, ‘Live at Red Rocks” which is slated some time in July.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Raconteurs- New Vinyl Release
The Raconteurs announced via their Myspace page that their new album "Consolers of the Lonely" will be released in just over a week on March 25th. From the band's myspace page:
"The album was mastered and completed in the first week of March. It was then taken immediately to a vinyl pressing plant. Then to a CD pressing plant. Then preparations to sell it digitally began. March 25th became the soonest date to have it available in EVERY FORMAT AT ONCE. The band have done no interviews or advertisements for this record before this announcement.
The purpose: to get the album to the fans as soon as possible and as we promised. We wanted to get this record to fans, the press, radio, etc., all at the EXACT SAME TIME so that no one has an upper hand on anyone else regarding it’s availability, reception or perception.
With this release, The Raconteurs are forgoing the usual months of lead time for press and radio set up, as well as forgoing the all important "first week sales." We wanted to explore the idea of releasing an album everywhere at once and THEN marketing and promoting it thereafter. The Raconteurs would rather this release not be defined by it’s first weeks sales, pre-release promotion, or by someone defining it FOR YOU before you get to hear it."
"The album was mastered and completed in the first week of March. It was then taken immediately to a vinyl pressing plant. Then to a CD pressing plant. Then preparations to sell it digitally began. March 25th became the soonest date to have it available in EVERY FORMAT AT ONCE. The band have done no interviews or advertisements for this record before this announcement.
The purpose: to get the album to the fans as soon as possible and as we promised. We wanted to get this record to fans, the press, radio, etc., all at the EXACT SAME TIME so that no one has an upper hand on anyone else regarding it’s availability, reception or perception.
With this release, The Raconteurs are forgoing the usual months of lead time for press and radio set up, as well as forgoing the all important "first week sales." We wanted to explore the idea of releasing an album everywhere at once and THEN marketing and promoting it thereafter. The Raconteurs would rather this release not be defined by it’s first weeks sales, pre-release promotion, or by someone defining it FOR YOU before you get to hear it."
This Day In Music History- March 18
The late Wilson Pickett ("Funky Broadway") was born in 1941.
John Phillips of the Mamas & the Papas ("Monday Monday") died of heart failure in 2001.
The Doobie Brothers, Dionne Warwick and Petula Clark were among the entertainers at Liza Minelli's wedding reception in 2002.
Teddy Pendergrass of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes was paralyzed in a car accident in 1982.
Jerry Lee Lewis became the first artist to sing three songs on an episode of ABC-TV's "American Bandstand" (and he sings, not lip-synchs them) in 1958.
The Everly Brothers recorded "Cathy's Clown" in 1960.
Happy birthday to Charley Pride, who was born in Sledge, Mississippi in 1938. The "Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'" hit-maker is arguably the most successful African-American in country music.
Vanessa Williams was born in Tarrytown, NY in 1963. She's famous for a bit of everything, including being the last significant Miss America.
Alice in Chains' guitarist Jerry Cantrell was born in 1966.
All hail the Queen! Hip-hop MC turned actress Queen Latifah was born in Newark, NJ in 1970.
In 1972, Neil Young topped the charts with "Heart of Gold." It's his only solo single to go top 30. Backing vocals were provided by James Taylor and Linda Ronstadt.
The Clash released their first single, "White Riot" in 1977.
In 1994 four guns and 25 boxes of ammo were confiscated from Kurt Cobain (Nirvana) after his wife, Courtney Love, called police fearing he was going to commit suicide. He did commit suicide about 3 weeks later.
After three minor chart makers, an Oklahoma group called Five Americans released their biggest hit, "Western Union,” which would eventually crack Billboard's Top 10 in 1967.
Also in 1967, the Beatles enjoyed their thirteenth US number one single with "Penny Lane.”
In 1978, the Bee Gees continued an amazing hot streak of three consecutive number one hits with "Night Fever,” which topped the charts and stayed there for 8 weeks. (Who really liked Disco?)
In 2000, a film company paid over a million dollars for nine hours of film shot by Yoko Ono during the 70s that showed John Lennon smoking hash and talking about his political beliefs.
The Best of the Lovin' Spoonful, drawn from three albums and numerous singles, entered the album charts in 1967. It charted for a full year, peaking at #3.
In 1976, 'The Man Who Fell to Earth,' a science-fiction movie starring David Bowie in an award-winning performance, debuts takes place in London.
Doobie Brothers co-founder and drummer, John Hartman, was born in Falls Church, VA in1950.
Cinderella guitarist Jeff LeBar has a birthday. He was born in 1953.
In 1995, Madonna hosted the world's largest pajama part, "Madonna's Bedtime Story Pajama Party," live from New York City's Webster Hall. (I slept through it)
John Phillips of the Mamas & the Papas ("Monday Monday") died of heart failure in 2001.
The Doobie Brothers, Dionne Warwick and Petula Clark were among the entertainers at Liza Minelli's wedding reception in 2002.
Teddy Pendergrass of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes was paralyzed in a car accident in 1982.
Jerry Lee Lewis became the first artist to sing three songs on an episode of ABC-TV's "American Bandstand" (and he sings, not lip-synchs them) in 1958.
The Everly Brothers recorded "Cathy's Clown" in 1960.
Happy birthday to Charley Pride, who was born in Sledge, Mississippi in 1938. The "Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'" hit-maker is arguably the most successful African-American in country music.
Vanessa Williams was born in Tarrytown, NY in 1963. She's famous for a bit of everything, including being the last significant Miss America.
Alice in Chains' guitarist Jerry Cantrell was born in 1966.
All hail the Queen! Hip-hop MC turned actress Queen Latifah was born in Newark, NJ in 1970.
In 1972, Neil Young topped the charts with "Heart of Gold." It's his only solo single to go top 30. Backing vocals were provided by James Taylor and Linda Ronstadt.
The Clash released their first single, "White Riot" in 1977.
In 1994 four guns and 25 boxes of ammo were confiscated from Kurt Cobain (Nirvana) after his wife, Courtney Love, called police fearing he was going to commit suicide. He did commit suicide about 3 weeks later.
After three minor chart makers, an Oklahoma group called Five Americans released their biggest hit, "Western Union,” which would eventually crack Billboard's Top 10 in 1967.
Also in 1967, the Beatles enjoyed their thirteenth US number one single with "Penny Lane.”
In 1978, the Bee Gees continued an amazing hot streak of three consecutive number one hits with "Night Fever,” which topped the charts and stayed there for 8 weeks. (Who really liked Disco?)
In 2000, a film company paid over a million dollars for nine hours of film shot by Yoko Ono during the 70s that showed John Lennon smoking hash and talking about his political beliefs.
The Best of the Lovin' Spoonful, drawn from three albums and numerous singles, entered the album charts in 1967. It charted for a full year, peaking at #3.
In 1976, 'The Man Who Fell to Earth,' a science-fiction movie starring David Bowie in an award-winning performance, debuts takes place in London.
Doobie Brothers co-founder and drummer, John Hartman, was born in Falls Church, VA in1950.
Cinderella guitarist Jeff LeBar has a birthday. He was born in 1953.
In 1995, Madonna hosted the world's largest pajama part, "Madonna's Bedtime Story Pajama Party," live from New York City's Webster Hall. (I slept through it)
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Top 5 eBay Vinyl Record Sales
Week Ending 02/23/2008
1) 45rpm - Bruce Springsteen "Spirit In The Night" / "For You" Columbia - $5,100.00
2) LP - Phafner "Overdrive" Dragon - $5,000.00
3) 45rpm - The Squires "The Sultan" / "Aurora" V - $4,161.00
4) 45rpm - U2 "All I Want Is You" Purple Vinyl - $4,058.00
5) LP - Beatles "Please, Please Me" Parlophone - $3,850.00
1) 45rpm - Bruce Springsteen "Spirit In The Night" / "For You" Columbia - $5,100.00
2) LP - Phafner "Overdrive" Dragon - $5,000.00
3) 45rpm - The Squires "The Sultan" / "Aurora" V - $4,161.00
4) 45rpm - U2 "All I Want Is You" Purple Vinyl - $4,058.00
5) LP - Beatles "Please, Please Me" Parlophone - $3,850.00
This Day In Music History- March 16
Rock ‘n’ Roll’s pioneer promoter (and the man who coined the term) Alan Freed got nailed for tax evasion in 1964, ending his illustrious career.
Nancy Wilson of Heart ("Barracuda") turns 54.
Tammi Terrell ("Ain't Nothin' Like The Real Thing" with Marvin Gaye) died of brain cancer in 1970.
Johnny Cymbal (he sang "Mr. Bass Man" and was known as Derek when he later recorded "Cinnamon") died of a heart attack in 1993.
In 1996, "One Sweet Day," by Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men, stayed at No. 1 on the Hot 100 for a 16th week, breaking all previous records.
Seven members of Reba McEntire's touring party died in 1991, when their private plane crashes in California. Reba was on another plane.
A son is born to Eddie Van Halen and Valerie Bertinelli in 1991. They name him Wolfgang Van Halen. (thanks Mom & Dad!)
In 1975, the legendary T-Bone Walker died of pneumonia at age 64 in Los Angeles. His expressive guitar soloing brought the instrument to the fore of modern blues.
In 1972, John and Yoko are served with deportation papers after someone hears one of Yoko's solo recordings.
In 1971, "Bridge Over Troubled Water" and its title track by Simon & Garfunkel win Grammy Awards for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Album of the Year.
The Beatles released “Let It Be” on this date in 1970.
In 1967, Pink Floyd began sessions at Abbey Road studios for their debut album, “Piper at the Gates of Dawn.”
In 1963, Peter, Paul & Mary released the toker's favorite "Puff the Magic Dragon." Yet another song that was not about drugs.
"The Ballad of Davy Crockett" by Bill Hayes, reached the number one spot on the US Pop music charts in 1955, where it would stay for five weeks. The song sold more than 7,000,000 records on more than 20 different labels worldwide and sparked a coonskin cap craze.
In 1902, Bluesman Guitar Slim was born in Charles City County, Virginia.
“(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” by Otis Redding, reached #1 for the first of four weeks in 1968. Recorded three days before Redding’s death in a plane crash, it is the biggest hit from the Stax Records label group, appearing on Volt.
In 1999, The Record Industry Association of America (RIAA) created the Diamond sales award for album sales in excess of 10 million copies. Groups who have already hit the mark are AC/DC, Bon Jovi, Boston, Journey, Led Zeppelin, Metallica, Van Halen and ZZ Top. At the top of the list was The Eagles' Greatest Hits, with over 25 million copies (it would sell another million by the end of the year).
US radio and TV personality Arthur Godfrey died on March 16, 1983 in New York City at the age of 79. His show, Arthur Godfrey's Talent Scouts was a fore runner of Star Search and American Idol on which "scouts" presented their discoveries to perform live before a national radio and television audience.
Nancy Wilson of Heart ("Barracuda") turns 54.
Tammi Terrell ("Ain't Nothin' Like The Real Thing" with Marvin Gaye) died of brain cancer in 1970.
Johnny Cymbal (he sang "Mr. Bass Man" and was known as Derek when he later recorded "Cinnamon") died of a heart attack in 1993.
In 1996, "One Sweet Day," by Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men, stayed at No. 1 on the Hot 100 for a 16th week, breaking all previous records.
Seven members of Reba McEntire's touring party died in 1991, when their private plane crashes in California. Reba was on another plane.
A son is born to Eddie Van Halen and Valerie Bertinelli in 1991. They name him Wolfgang Van Halen. (thanks Mom & Dad!)
In 1975, the legendary T-Bone Walker died of pneumonia at age 64 in Los Angeles. His expressive guitar soloing brought the instrument to the fore of modern blues.
In 1972, John and Yoko are served with deportation papers after someone hears one of Yoko's solo recordings.
In 1971, "Bridge Over Troubled Water" and its title track by Simon & Garfunkel win Grammy Awards for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Album of the Year.
The Beatles released “Let It Be” on this date in 1970.
In 1967, Pink Floyd began sessions at Abbey Road studios for their debut album, “Piper at the Gates of Dawn.”
In 1963, Peter, Paul & Mary released the toker's favorite "Puff the Magic Dragon." Yet another song that was not about drugs.
"The Ballad of Davy Crockett" by Bill Hayes, reached the number one spot on the US Pop music charts in 1955, where it would stay for five weeks. The song sold more than 7,000,000 records on more than 20 different labels worldwide and sparked a coonskin cap craze.
In 1902, Bluesman Guitar Slim was born in Charles City County, Virginia.
“(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” by Otis Redding, reached #1 for the first of four weeks in 1968. Recorded three days before Redding’s death in a plane crash, it is the biggest hit from the Stax Records label group, appearing on Volt.
In 1999, The Record Industry Association of America (RIAA) created the Diamond sales award for album sales in excess of 10 million copies. Groups who have already hit the mark are AC/DC, Bon Jovi, Boston, Journey, Led Zeppelin, Metallica, Van Halen and ZZ Top. At the top of the list was The Eagles' Greatest Hits, with over 25 million copies (it would sell another million by the end of the year).
US radio and TV personality Arthur Godfrey died on March 16, 1983 in New York City at the age of 79. His show, Arthur Godfrey's Talent Scouts was a fore runner of Star Search and American Idol on which "scouts" presented their discoveries to perform live before a national radio and television audience.
Friday, March 14, 2008
This Day In Music History- March 14
Phil Phillips ("Sea Of Love") turns 77.
Producer Quincy Jones (produced records by Michael Jackson and Lesley Gore, as well as "We Are The World") is 75.
Rick Dees ("Disco Duck") is 58.
Songwriter Doc Pomus ("Save The Last Dance For Me", "Suspicion", "Hushabye" and many others) died of lung cancer in 1991.
In 1955, Elvis Presley was interviewed by Jimmy Dean on Jimmy's Washington, DC television show.
In 1965, Petula Clark made her American TV debut on the "Ed Sullivan Show" on CBS.
The movie, "Rock Around The Clock" (with Bill Haley, the Platters and Freddie Bell & the Bellboys) premiered in Washington, DC in 1956.
In 1958, the first official gold record was awarded- to Perry Como for "Catch A Falling Star.”
Jim Pons, bassist for the Turtles and the Mothers of Invention, was born in 1943.
1959-Elvis Presley made the Billboard album chart with "For LP Fans Only". It was the first LP ever issued without the artist's name to be found anywhere on the cover - front or back.
Thieves steal $325,000 worth of Elvis Presley`s jewelry and kitsch from the Elvis-A-Rama Museum in Las Vegas in 2004. Among the stolen inventory: a gold-plated handgun, a custom scarf, a bracelet and Presley`s Humes High School ring from 1953. However, the crooks leave Elvis` blue suede shoes.
1964- For the first time in British recording history, all Top Ten singles in the UK are by British acts. #1 - "Anyone Who Had A Heart" by Cilla Black, #2 - "Bits and Pieces" by The Dave Clark Five, #3 - "Little Children" by Billy J Kramer, #4 - "Diane" by The Bachelors, #5 - "Not Fade Away" by The Rolling Stones, #6 - "Just One Look" by The Hollies, #7 - "Needles and Pins" by The Searchers, #8 - "I Think Of You" by The Merseybeats, #9 - "Boys Cry" by Eden Kane, #10 - "Let Me Go Lover" by Kathy Kirby. Talk about a British invasion!
In 1972, Carole King's "Tapestry" LP was named Album Of The Year at the 14th Grammy Awards. The disc had been 1971's best selling record.
One of Chicago’s founding members and their sax player, Walter Parazaider, was born in the Cubs/White Sox hometown in 1945.
In 1987, Huey Lewis and The News scored their third number one record in the US with a Bruce Hornsby composition, "Jacob's Ladder", one of six singles released from the album "Fore".
Michael Jackson was voted artist of the decade at the annual Soul Train Awards in 1990.
Frankie Avalon hits #1 in the US with "Venus" in 1959. It stayed there for five weeks.
"Me and Bobby McGee," Janis Joplin's only Top Forty hit, reaches #1 in 1971.
Producer Quincy Jones (produced records by Michael Jackson and Lesley Gore, as well as "We Are The World") is 75.
Rick Dees ("Disco Duck") is 58.
Songwriter Doc Pomus ("Save The Last Dance For Me", "Suspicion", "Hushabye" and many others) died of lung cancer in 1991.
In 1955, Elvis Presley was interviewed by Jimmy Dean on Jimmy's Washington, DC television show.
In 1965, Petula Clark made her American TV debut on the "Ed Sullivan Show" on CBS.
The movie, "Rock Around The Clock" (with Bill Haley, the Platters and Freddie Bell & the Bellboys) premiered in Washington, DC in 1956.
In 1958, the first official gold record was awarded- to Perry Como for "Catch A Falling Star.”
Jim Pons, bassist for the Turtles and the Mothers of Invention, was born in 1943.
1959-Elvis Presley made the Billboard album chart with "For LP Fans Only". It was the first LP ever issued without the artist's name to be found anywhere on the cover - front or back.
Thieves steal $325,000 worth of Elvis Presley`s jewelry and kitsch from the Elvis-A-Rama Museum in Las Vegas in 2004. Among the stolen inventory: a gold-plated handgun, a custom scarf, a bracelet and Presley`s Humes High School ring from 1953. However, the crooks leave Elvis` blue suede shoes.
1964- For the first time in British recording history, all Top Ten singles in the UK are by British acts. #1 - "Anyone Who Had A Heart" by Cilla Black, #2 - "Bits and Pieces" by The Dave Clark Five, #3 - "Little Children" by Billy J Kramer, #4 - "Diane" by The Bachelors, #5 - "Not Fade Away" by The Rolling Stones, #6 - "Just One Look" by The Hollies, #7 - "Needles and Pins" by The Searchers, #8 - "I Think Of You" by The Merseybeats, #9 - "Boys Cry" by Eden Kane, #10 - "Let Me Go Lover" by Kathy Kirby. Talk about a British invasion!
In 1972, Carole King's "Tapestry" LP was named Album Of The Year at the 14th Grammy Awards. The disc had been 1971's best selling record.
One of Chicago’s founding members and their sax player, Walter Parazaider, was born in the Cubs/White Sox hometown in 1945.
In 1987, Huey Lewis and The News scored their third number one record in the US with a Bruce Hornsby composition, "Jacob's Ladder", one of six singles released from the album "Fore".
Michael Jackson was voted artist of the decade at the annual Soul Train Awards in 1990.
Frankie Avalon hits #1 in the US with "Venus" in 1959. It stayed there for five weeks.
"Me and Bobby McGee," Janis Joplin's only Top Forty hit, reaches #1 in 1971.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
New Releases On Vinyl
NIN- New Album Pulls In $1.6M In First Week
The online release of the new Nine Inch Nails album, "Ghosts I-IV," resulted in just under 800,000 transactions in its first week, totaling $1.6 million in revenue, the band revealed.
Orders include free and paid downloads, as well as online orders for physical products like various limited-edition vinyl releases, CDs, and a dual-CD box set. NIN will not release traditional sales figures to SoundScan.
==========================================
Grammatics to release a 10" vinyl single in April
On Monday, 7th April, Leeds four-piece Grammatics will release a new single on the Dance To The Radio record label. A double A-side release ('D.I.L.E.M.N.A' / 'Polar Swelling') the single is available both on limited-edition 10" vinyl and on Digital Download formats.
Two wildly different pieces of music, the tracks have one thing in common: they don't sound like they've been recorded by a new band still finding its feet; rather, they sound like the kind of ambitious, forward-thinking creations you'd expect from any of the bands that inspired Grammatics in the first place. Most importantly, they sound like they couldn't have been recorded by anybody else.
==========================================
Legendary U.S. thrashers HIRAX release seven-inch single.
After being on hiatus for a couple of years, Sweden's Stormbringer Records is back with another release lined up for 2008 — a seven-inch single from legendary U.S. thrashers HIRAX. This will contain the very first recording the band did, the classic 1984 demo recording. The seven-inch will be on colored vinyl, come with an insert with photos from original HIRAX guitarist Bob Savage's own collection and include liner notes written by Laurent "I Love Atheist" Ramadier from Snakepit magazine.
=========================================
Portishead To Release 'Third' Via USB Stick Format
Portishead have confirmed that they are releasing a very special USB stick version of their new album ‘Third.’
The limited-edition 1GB will feature the 11 album tracks as well as four films titled: 'Ade's House, Machine Gun', 'The Rip live @ Mr Wolfe's’, 'We Carry On' and ‘The Truly Spectacular Universal Conference Film.'
On top of the CD and USB stick there is a limited-edition double 12” vinyl version featuring special prints and etched vinyl. All three versions will be available on April 28.
The online release of the new Nine Inch Nails album, "Ghosts I-IV," resulted in just under 800,000 transactions in its first week, totaling $1.6 million in revenue, the band revealed.
Orders include free and paid downloads, as well as online orders for physical products like various limited-edition vinyl releases, CDs, and a dual-CD box set. NIN will not release traditional sales figures to SoundScan.
==========================================
Grammatics to release a 10" vinyl single in April
On Monday, 7th April, Leeds four-piece Grammatics will release a new single on the Dance To The Radio record label. A double A-side release ('D.I.L.E.M.N.A' / 'Polar Swelling') the single is available both on limited-edition 10" vinyl and on Digital Download formats.
Two wildly different pieces of music, the tracks have one thing in common: they don't sound like they've been recorded by a new band still finding its feet; rather, they sound like the kind of ambitious, forward-thinking creations you'd expect from any of the bands that inspired Grammatics in the first place. Most importantly, they sound like they couldn't have been recorded by anybody else.
==========================================
Legendary U.S. thrashers HIRAX release seven-inch single.
After being on hiatus for a couple of years, Sweden's Stormbringer Records is back with another release lined up for 2008 — a seven-inch single from legendary U.S. thrashers HIRAX. This will contain the very first recording the band did, the classic 1984 demo recording. The seven-inch will be on colored vinyl, come with an insert with photos from original HIRAX guitarist Bob Savage's own collection and include liner notes written by Laurent "I Love Atheist" Ramadier from Snakepit magazine.
=========================================
Portishead To Release 'Third' Via USB Stick Format
Portishead have confirmed that they are releasing a very special USB stick version of their new album ‘Third.’
The limited-edition 1GB will feature the 11 album tracks as well as four films titled: 'Ade's House, Machine Gun', 'The Rip live @ Mr Wolfe's’, 'We Carry On' and ‘The Truly Spectacular Universal Conference Film.'
On top of the CD and USB stick there is a limited-edition double 12” vinyl version featuring special prints and etched vinyl. All three versions will be available on April 28.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Independent Rocker's Hit The Mark
As I continue my band reviews for the independent online radio station www.ilike2rock.net, I wanted to share a great band that really knows their stuff and plays music with a hard-rockin' style:
Vonzeles
By Robert Benson
With their new CD called “The Next One,” the hard-rocking quartet Vonzeles is making musical waves with their unique melding of precision power rock that is making the music industry stand up and take notice.
Their CD is full of raw intensity, indescribable power and is a rare collection of fresh rock melodies. This rocking band from Tolleson, Arizona hits the mark hard with cuts like the arena-ready rocker “New Existence,” the Candlebox-like, slow tempo sounds of the cut “Feel Good” and the acid-flavored funk and heavy bass lines of the song “Sex Machine.”
But Vonzeles brings down the house with cuts like “I Remember,” an affectionate ballad with Zeppelin-like acoustic guitar that explodes lyrically and musically (ala 3 Doors Down) into a song that people can relate to. The instrumental "This One," with more inspiring acoustics, appropriately serves as an introduction and compliment to "This Is Me," with rough-edged confessional lyrics and rapid-fire, high voltage guitar work adroitly reflecting the song's rage and bitterness.
“Useless Woman,” with its bold lyrics, is another heavy rocker with a fantastic lead guitar that meshes perfectly with the spitefully sung husky growl of Carl, the lead singer. Other cuts like “Cocked & Loaded,” full of fuzz guitar, heavy bass lines has the listener thinking Metallica is playing along with the band. The cuts “End Of Days,” “Half Of It” and “Next One” are all full of grungy guitar rock and all would be right at home on any heavy metal radio station play list.
All in all, “The Next One” is by far Vonzeles breakthrough CD, full of slashing riffs, explosive vocals and straight-up rock and roll. One can actually feel the music, something that every band or artist strives to achieve. Vonzeles has captured this element perfectly and does not let their listeners down.
Visit the band:
http://www.ilike2rock.net/Vonzeles
Vonzeles
By Robert Benson
With their new CD called “The Next One,” the hard-rocking quartet Vonzeles is making musical waves with their unique melding of precision power rock that is making the music industry stand up and take notice.
Their CD is full of raw intensity, indescribable power and is a rare collection of fresh rock melodies. This rocking band from Tolleson, Arizona hits the mark hard with cuts like the arena-ready rocker “New Existence,” the Candlebox-like, slow tempo sounds of the cut “Feel Good” and the acid-flavored funk and heavy bass lines of the song “Sex Machine.”
But Vonzeles brings down the house with cuts like “I Remember,” an affectionate ballad with Zeppelin-like acoustic guitar that explodes lyrically and musically (ala 3 Doors Down) into a song that people can relate to. The instrumental "This One," with more inspiring acoustics, appropriately serves as an introduction and compliment to "This Is Me," with rough-edged confessional lyrics and rapid-fire, high voltage guitar work adroitly reflecting the song's rage and bitterness.
“Useless Woman,” with its bold lyrics, is another heavy rocker with a fantastic lead guitar that meshes perfectly with the spitefully sung husky growl of Carl, the lead singer. Other cuts like “Cocked & Loaded,” full of fuzz guitar, heavy bass lines has the listener thinking Metallica is playing along with the band. The cuts “End Of Days,” “Half Of It” and “Next One” are all full of grungy guitar rock and all would be right at home on any heavy metal radio station play list.
All in all, “The Next One” is by far Vonzeles breakthrough CD, full of slashing riffs, explosive vocals and straight-up rock and roll. One can actually feel the music, something that every band or artist strives to achieve. Vonzeles has captured this element perfectly and does not let their listeners down.
Visit the band:
http://www.ilike2rock.net/Vonzeles
Alkaline Trio Reissue
Goddamnit, has it been 10 years already? Chicago punks Alkaline Trio reissued their debut album, Goddamnit, today via Asian Man Records. The reissue features the original album completely remixed and remastered, as well as four bonus tracks, new artwork and an in-depth documentary that features interviews with all of the group's original members. On March 25, Asian Man will issue a vinyl version of the re-release.
Vinyl Records Top 5 eBay Sales
Week Ending 02/09/2008
Top 5 List:
1) LP - Bob Dylan "Blood On The Tracks" Vinyl Test Pressing - $4,999.99
2) 45rpm - Soul Brothers Inc "Teardrops" / "Salem" - $4,494.44
3) 78rpm - Bix Beiderbecke test pressing "Thou Swell" - $3,000.00
4) 78rpm - Robert Johnson test pressing Vocalion DAL 402-1 - $2,550.00
5. 78rpm - Ramblin' Thomas "So Lonesome" / "Lock And Key Blues" Paramount 12637 - $2,481.78
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Vinyl Records Top 5 eBay Sales
Week Ending 02/02/2008
Top 5 List:
1) 45rpm - Elvis Presley "That's All Right Mama" / "Blue Moon Of Kentuck" Sun Sample - $2,026.00
2) 45rpm - Vikki Styles "The Tears Won't Stop Falling" / "If I Didn't Love You" ODEX - $1,999.99
3) 45rpm - Beatles "Noregian Wood" Greeny Vinyl 45 - $1,530.00
4) 45rpm - Anthony Ellis Blank 7" Reggae Ska Instrumental - $1,501.00 Start:
5) LP - Beatles "Yesterday & Today" Butcher Cover LP - $1,499.99
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Vinyl Records Top 5 eBay Sales
Week Ending 01/26/2008
Top 5 List:
1) 45rpm - The Misfits "Horror Business" (Signed) - $14,301.38
2) 45rpm - Ray Pollard "This Time (I'm Gonna Be True)" / "No More Like Me" Shrine 103 - $3,060.00
3) LP - Bob Dylan "Vol. 4" Japan White Label Promo w/ OBI - $2,799.99
4) 45rpm - Willie Wright "Right On Darkness" - $2,716.00
5. LP - Vashti "Bunyan" - $2,300.00
Top 5 List:
1) LP - Bob Dylan "Blood On The Tracks" Vinyl Test Pressing - $4,999.99
2) 45rpm - Soul Brothers Inc "Teardrops" / "Salem" - $4,494.44
3) 78rpm - Bix Beiderbecke test pressing "Thou Swell" - $3,000.00
4) 78rpm - Robert Johnson test pressing Vocalion DAL 402-1 - $2,550.00
5. 78rpm - Ramblin' Thomas "So Lonesome" / "Lock And Key Blues" Paramount 12637 - $2,481.78
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Vinyl Records Top 5 eBay Sales
Week Ending 02/02/2008
Top 5 List:
1) 45rpm - Elvis Presley "That's All Right Mama" / "Blue Moon Of Kentuck" Sun Sample - $2,026.00
2) 45rpm - Vikki Styles "The Tears Won't Stop Falling" / "If I Didn't Love You" ODEX - $1,999.99
3) 45rpm - Beatles "Noregian Wood" Greeny Vinyl 45 - $1,530.00
4) 45rpm - Anthony Ellis Blank 7" Reggae Ska Instrumental - $1,501.00 Start:
5) LP - Beatles "Yesterday & Today" Butcher Cover LP - $1,499.99
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Vinyl Records Top 5 eBay Sales
Week Ending 01/26/2008
Top 5 List:
1) 45rpm - The Misfits "Horror Business" (Signed) - $14,301.38
2) 45rpm - Ray Pollard "This Time (I'm Gonna Be True)" / "No More Like Me" Shrine 103 - $3,060.00
3) LP - Bob Dylan "Vol. 4" Japan White Label Promo w/ OBI - $2,799.99
4) 45rpm - Willie Wright "Right On Darkness" - $2,716.00
5. LP - Vashti "Bunyan" - $2,300.00
This Day In Music History- March 12
Pink Floyd's David Gilmour topped the U.K. album charts with "On An Island" in 2006.
In 2003, callers to Nashville radio station WKDF demand a boycott of Texan trio the Dixie Chicks' music after singer Natalie Maines says, "We're ashamed the president of the United States is from Texas."
In 1971, John Lennon released his solo single "Power to the People," having recorded it a mere four days before.
Guitarist Graham Coxon of Blur was born in 1969.
It was a dark day for jazz in 1955 as Charlie "Bird" Parker died at the age of 34. A master saxophonist, he was also a musical innovator, helping to birth the animated style of swing called bebop. The hard-living Parker's postmortem suggests he may have died from pneumonia, a heart attack, burst stomach ulcers, or cirrhosis of the liver.
Liza "with a Z" Minnelli was born in Hollywood in 1946.
In 1946, Jefferson Airplane's Paul Kantner was born in San Francisco. The guitarist is a free-thinker who helped create the West Cost psychedelic sound in the 1960’s.
The late Leonard Chess was born in Motol, Poland in 1917. His Chicago-based Chess label documented the seminal blues and rock 'n roll of Willie Dixon, Muddy Waters, Bo Diddley, Chuck Berry, and Howlin' Wolf.
James Taylor ("Your Smiling Face") turns 60.
Paul McCartney married Linda Eastman in 1969 (none of his band mates attended).
George Harrison was arrested for possession of marijuana in 1969 (maybe that’s why he wasn’t at the wedding)
John Lennon and Harry Nilsson were thrown out of the Troubador nightclub in Los Angeles for heckling the Smothers Brothers, who were performing there in 1974. This period becomes known as Lennon’s “Lost Weekend.”
In 1965, The Beatles wrapped up their location shooting of Help! in the Bahamas. In an interview with The New York Times, Beatles manager Brian Epstein predicts that the band will still be popular in 10 years and declares the Rolling Stones "a fine group."
1996 - The album "Unplugged" was released by KISS.
2003 - The Chinese government ordered the Rolling Stones to eliminate four songs from their upcoming performances in Shanghai and Beijing. The banned songs were "Brown Sugar," "Honky Tonk Women," "Beast of Burden," and "Let's Spend the Night Together."
In 1959, an American Bandstand viewer's pole lists 15 year old Fabian Forte as the Most Promising New Talent. The young man is currently enjoying success with "Turn Me Loose", which will crack the US Top 10 in April.
In 1966, The Levi Strauss Company began selling bell-bottom blue jeans in the US. (far out man!)
A poll conducted by the Recording Industry Association of America in 2001, music fans voted Judy Garland's "Over The Rainbow" as the Song Of The Century. The Rolling Stones' "Satisfaction" came in at #16 and The Beatles' "I Want To Hold Your Hand" was #26.
The Mamas and the Papas' debut single, "California Dreamin'," reached #4 in 1966. Over time, it becomes the Mamas and the Papas' signature song.
Steve Harris was born in London in 1956. He works as an architectural draftsman but quits his day job after launching Iron Maiden in '75. The bassist also serves as the group’s principal composer and lyricist.
In 2003, callers to Nashville radio station WKDF demand a boycott of Texan trio the Dixie Chicks' music after singer Natalie Maines says, "We're ashamed the president of the United States is from Texas."
In 1971, John Lennon released his solo single "Power to the People," having recorded it a mere four days before.
Guitarist Graham Coxon of Blur was born in 1969.
It was a dark day for jazz in 1955 as Charlie "Bird" Parker died at the age of 34. A master saxophonist, he was also a musical innovator, helping to birth the animated style of swing called bebop. The hard-living Parker's postmortem suggests he may have died from pneumonia, a heart attack, burst stomach ulcers, or cirrhosis of the liver.
Liza "with a Z" Minnelli was born in Hollywood in 1946.
In 1946, Jefferson Airplane's Paul Kantner was born in San Francisco. The guitarist is a free-thinker who helped create the West Cost psychedelic sound in the 1960’s.
The late Leonard Chess was born in Motol, Poland in 1917. His Chicago-based Chess label documented the seminal blues and rock 'n roll of Willie Dixon, Muddy Waters, Bo Diddley, Chuck Berry, and Howlin' Wolf.
James Taylor ("Your Smiling Face") turns 60.
Paul McCartney married Linda Eastman in 1969 (none of his band mates attended).
George Harrison was arrested for possession of marijuana in 1969 (maybe that’s why he wasn’t at the wedding)
John Lennon and Harry Nilsson were thrown out of the Troubador nightclub in Los Angeles for heckling the Smothers Brothers, who were performing there in 1974. This period becomes known as Lennon’s “Lost Weekend.”
In 1965, The Beatles wrapped up their location shooting of Help! in the Bahamas. In an interview with The New York Times, Beatles manager Brian Epstein predicts that the band will still be popular in 10 years and declares the Rolling Stones "a fine group."
1996 - The album "Unplugged" was released by KISS.
2003 - The Chinese government ordered the Rolling Stones to eliminate four songs from their upcoming performances in Shanghai and Beijing. The banned songs were "Brown Sugar," "Honky Tonk Women," "Beast of Burden," and "Let's Spend the Night Together."
In 1959, an American Bandstand viewer's pole lists 15 year old Fabian Forte as the Most Promising New Talent. The young man is currently enjoying success with "Turn Me Loose", which will crack the US Top 10 in April.
In 1966, The Levi Strauss Company began selling bell-bottom blue jeans in the US. (far out man!)
A poll conducted by the Recording Industry Association of America in 2001, music fans voted Judy Garland's "Over The Rainbow" as the Song Of The Century. The Rolling Stones' "Satisfaction" came in at #16 and The Beatles' "I Want To Hold Your Hand" was #26.
The Mamas and the Papas' debut single, "California Dreamin'," reached #4 in 1966. Over time, it becomes the Mamas and the Papas' signature song.
Steve Harris was born in London in 1956. He works as an architectural draftsman but quits his day job after launching Iron Maiden in '75. The bassist also serves as the group’s principal composer and lyricist.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Old Southern Moonshine Revival
I am still doing band and CD reviews for the independent online radio station www.ilike2rock.net and I have just listened to an inventive 'Southern Rock' band and want to share their music.
Old Southern Moonshine Revival
by Robert Benson
Itching for some fresh down-home ‘Southern Rock?’ You can’t go wrong with the North Carolina–based band called Old Southern Moonshine Revival who have released a compelling array of rootsy country sounds on their debut CD called “Old Southern.”
With interwoven harmonies, inventive melodies and a bit of Southern nostalgia, the band may remind some of the Marshall Tucker Band, Mason Profit or the iconic Allman Brothers Band.
But what Old Southern Moonshine Revival is able to accomplish is to bring these classic sounds into the 2000’s and add their distinctive stamp on the Southern Rock genre. In fact, the Revival are in the top 25 Unsigned Southern Rock Bands on MySpace, a hefty feat indeed!
The cut “2 Shells Gone Now,” is a classic ‘storytelling’ rock song that is expertly played and sung with artistic confidence. “Alabama” is an acoustic gem, a banjo laced lullaby of sorts about a man missing his home. The song “New pair Of Boots” is a tongue-in-cheek ditty about leaving your loved one and has a delicious catchiness to it. The alcohol silliness of “Sobered Up My Drunk” is another acoustic country gem about love gone wrong and is played with obvious zest.
But Old Southern Moonshine Revival really shines with the cut “Solo Whiskey Travelin' Blues,” with impeccable harmonies, fine acoustics and is the band’s signature song. “Kitchen Floor” is a mellow country gem with poignant lyrics and an intoxicating palette of piano work. The guys have fun and cut loose with the cut “Shouldn’t Have Fed Me The Whiskey Tonight,” a country-rock classic.
It is easy to see why the group is a popular destination on MySpace and this popularity has led the band to be named one of the top 50 Unsigned Country Bands. Years from now I am sure that they will be regarded as one of the top Southern Rock bands of all time.
Old Southern Moonshine Revival is:
Kenny Taylor-bass
The Kemist-electric/lead guitar/vocals
Brent Bennett-drums/percussion/vocals
Ryan Puckett-piano/organ
For more information:
http://www.ilike2rock.net/members/89/
Old Southern Moonshine Revival
by Robert Benson
Itching for some fresh down-home ‘Southern Rock?’ You can’t go wrong with the North Carolina–based band called Old Southern Moonshine Revival who have released a compelling array of rootsy country sounds on their debut CD called “Old Southern.”
With interwoven harmonies, inventive melodies and a bit of Southern nostalgia, the band may remind some of the Marshall Tucker Band, Mason Profit or the iconic Allman Brothers Band.
But what Old Southern Moonshine Revival is able to accomplish is to bring these classic sounds into the 2000’s and add their distinctive stamp on the Southern Rock genre. In fact, the Revival are in the top 25 Unsigned Southern Rock Bands on MySpace, a hefty feat indeed!
The cut “2 Shells Gone Now,” is a classic ‘storytelling’ rock song that is expertly played and sung with artistic confidence. “Alabama” is an acoustic gem, a banjo laced lullaby of sorts about a man missing his home. The song “New pair Of Boots” is a tongue-in-cheek ditty about leaving your loved one and has a delicious catchiness to it. The alcohol silliness of “Sobered Up My Drunk” is another acoustic country gem about love gone wrong and is played with obvious zest.
But Old Southern Moonshine Revival really shines with the cut “Solo Whiskey Travelin' Blues,” with impeccable harmonies, fine acoustics and is the band’s signature song. “Kitchen Floor” is a mellow country gem with poignant lyrics and an intoxicating palette of piano work. The guys have fun and cut loose with the cut “Shouldn’t Have Fed Me The Whiskey Tonight,” a country-rock classic.
It is easy to see why the group is a popular destination on MySpace and this popularity has led the band to be named one of the top 50 Unsigned Country Bands. Years from now I am sure that they will be regarded as one of the top Southern Rock bands of all time.
Old Southern Moonshine Revival is:
Kenny Taylor-bass
The Kemist-electric/lead guitar/vocals
Brent Bennett-drums/percussion/vocals
Ryan Puckett-piano/organ
For more information:
http://www.ilike2rock.net/members/89/
Monday, March 10, 2008
BandT-Shirts.net now open!
As I try to keep up with the demands of my readers, I have just opened up a new site called http://www.bandt-shirts.net/
I have incorporated many sites all rolled into one. Browse for classic band t-shirts, animal tees, band hoodies, classic posters, three stooges tees, biker t-shirts,classic car t-shirts, heavy metal tees, Beatles' t-shirts and much more! Stop by for a visit today!
Kingblind.com
I have recently found a very interesting and informative site for all music lovers. Music News, Album & Concerts Reviews, MP3's, Music Videos, Art / Entertainment and much more!
Take a stroll over to: http://www.kingblind.com/ and tell Morgan I sent you by!
This Day In Music History- March 10
Dean Torrence of Jan & Dean ("Drag City") turns 68.
LaVern Baker ("Jim Dandy") died from heart failure in 1997.
Andy Gibb ("I Just Want To Be Your Everything") died from a viral infection of his heart in 1988.
In 1979, at the invitation of country star Porter Wagoner, James Brown performed at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, singing "Your Cheatin' Heart,” "Tennessee Waltz" and "Papa's Got A Brand New Bag.” Some Country artists such as Jean Shepard complained, but others like Barbara Mandrell said that Brown should have been invited five years earlier.
In 2005, Danny Joe Brown, lead singer of Southern rockers Molly Hatchet, died from pneumonia complications. The 53-year-old rocker once released a solo album credited to Danny Joe Brown and the Danny Joe Brown Band.
In 2005, Dave Blood, bassist with punk rockers the Dead Milkmen, committed suicide. The Milkmen's 1988 single "Punk Rock Girl" was an MTV staple.
In 2003, a Spanish hairdresser pays over a thousand dollars for a lock of hair George Harrison cut off in 1964. The hair will be displayed in Rafael Pages' hairdressing museum in Barcelona. (hairdressing museum?)
John Lennon released his cover of Ben E. King's "Stand by Me" as a single in the U.S. in 1975.
In 1971, Beatles manager Allen Klein was barred from involvement in the band's affairs as the Fab Four's career together winds down. According to legend, it is also on this night that John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr go to Paul McCartney's London townhouse and throw a brick through one of the windows. (All You Need Is Love)
In 1966, Edie Brickell was born in Oak Cliff, Texas.
The Beatles' "Eight Days a Week" goes to No. 1 in 1965. It's the first single by a British act to top the American charts but not make the charts in Britain, where it was unreleased.
In 1964, Neneh Cherry, the innovative R&B/hip-hop singer responsible for the "Buffalo Stance," was born in Stockholm.
Jeff Ament, the bassist in Pearl Jam and leader of Three Fish, was born in Big Sandy, Montana in 1963.
Pop mastermind Tom Scholz of Boston was born in Toledo, Ohio in 1947.
In 1955 RCA Records placed a half page ad in Billboard Magazine claiming that Elvis Presley was 'the new singing rage’.
In 1964, Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel recorded "The Sounds Of Silence" as an acoustic duo. It wasn't until electric guitar, bass and drums were added that the song would become a hit.
In 1973, Pink Floyd's "Dark Side Of The Moon" was released in America, where it would spent over 740 weeks on the chart.
Gloria Gaynor's "I Will Survive" found its way from B-side obscurity to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in 1979. It was also a #1 in the UK.
Today in 1962, the song "Hey! Baby" by Bruce Channel topped the charts and stayed there for 3 weeks.
LaVern Baker ("Jim Dandy") died from heart failure in 1997.
Andy Gibb ("I Just Want To Be Your Everything") died from a viral infection of his heart in 1988.
In 1979, at the invitation of country star Porter Wagoner, James Brown performed at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, singing "Your Cheatin' Heart,” "Tennessee Waltz" and "Papa's Got A Brand New Bag.” Some Country artists such as Jean Shepard complained, but others like Barbara Mandrell said that Brown should have been invited five years earlier.
In 2005, Danny Joe Brown, lead singer of Southern rockers Molly Hatchet, died from pneumonia complications. The 53-year-old rocker once released a solo album credited to Danny Joe Brown and the Danny Joe Brown Band.
In 2005, Dave Blood, bassist with punk rockers the Dead Milkmen, committed suicide. The Milkmen's 1988 single "Punk Rock Girl" was an MTV staple.
In 2003, a Spanish hairdresser pays over a thousand dollars for a lock of hair George Harrison cut off in 1964. The hair will be displayed in Rafael Pages' hairdressing museum in Barcelona. (hairdressing museum?)
John Lennon released his cover of Ben E. King's "Stand by Me" as a single in the U.S. in 1975.
In 1971, Beatles manager Allen Klein was barred from involvement in the band's affairs as the Fab Four's career together winds down. According to legend, it is also on this night that John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr go to Paul McCartney's London townhouse and throw a brick through one of the windows. (All You Need Is Love)
In 1966, Edie Brickell was born in Oak Cliff, Texas.
The Beatles' "Eight Days a Week" goes to No. 1 in 1965. It's the first single by a British act to top the American charts but not make the charts in Britain, where it was unreleased.
In 1964, Neneh Cherry, the innovative R&B/hip-hop singer responsible for the "Buffalo Stance," was born in Stockholm.
Jeff Ament, the bassist in Pearl Jam and leader of Three Fish, was born in Big Sandy, Montana in 1963.
Pop mastermind Tom Scholz of Boston was born in Toledo, Ohio in 1947.
In 1955 RCA Records placed a half page ad in Billboard Magazine claiming that Elvis Presley was 'the new singing rage’.
In 1964, Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel recorded "The Sounds Of Silence" as an acoustic duo. It wasn't until electric guitar, bass and drums were added that the song would become a hit.
In 1973, Pink Floyd's "Dark Side Of The Moon" was released in America, where it would spent over 740 weeks on the chart.
Gloria Gaynor's "I Will Survive" found its way from B-side obscurity to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in 1979. It was also a #1 in the UK.
Today in 1962, the song "Hey! Baby" by Bruce Channel topped the charts and stayed there for 3 weeks.
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